Authorities in the United Kingdom have announced road closures and temporary airspace restrictions in Windsor ahead of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s planned state visit next week, as security agencies move to tighten measures around the high-profile event.
The visit is the first by a Nigerian leader since military dictorar, Major Gen Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida visited Queen Elizabeth II in 1989.
Tinubu is expected to arrive on Wednesday, March 18, accompanied by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, with a formal reception scheduled at Windsor Castle hosted by King Charles III.
In a statement, Thames Valley Police said it is coordinating with the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, the Royal Household and other security partners to ensure the visit proceeds safely and with minimal disruption.
Police said permanent airspace restrictions over Windsor Castle will be extended on March 18 from 0700 GMT until 2359 GMT, forming part of broader security arrangements linked to the presidential visit.
Chief Superintendent Adrian Hall of the force’s Joint Operations Unit said the airspace curbs represent only one component of an extensive operational plan.
“The air restrictions are just one part of our robust security operation for the state visit of Nigerian President Tinubu next week,” Hall said, adding that some measures would be visible to the public while others would remain discreet.
He said the police service has considerable experience in managing security during royal ceremonies in Windsor and that detailed planning has been undertaken in preparation for the visit.
Authorities warned that the restrictions would be strictly enforced, noting that breaches could amount to a criminal offence under the UK’s Air Navigation Order and may lead to arrest.
Police also confirmed that specialised units, including search teams, mounted officers, armed personnel and road policing units, will be deployed across Windsor. These will operate alongside neighbourhood policing teams and Project Servator officers as part of efforts to deter potential threats.
Additional safety measures will include the use of Windsor’s extensive closed-circuit television network and the installation of hostile vehicle mitigation barriers at strategic locations.
Members of the public have been urged to remain vigilant during the visit and to report suspicious activity through the non-emergency 101 number or directly to officers on patrol, while emergencies should be reported via 999.
Temporary road closures and parking restrictions are expected to come into force from Tuesday, March 17, with traffic disruptions anticipated in and around Windsor.
Thames Valley Police said it is also working with the Civil Aviation Authority and National Air Traffic Services to implement the flight restrictions. Individuals seeking to operate drones or other aircraft within the restricted period have been advised to obtain prior clearance from the police.
